Colombian student Juan David Alarcon has lost both his jobs and is not sure how he will pay his rent.Credit:Justin McManus.
“We can’t take $39 billion a year off those students and not expect to give something back in an unprecedented crisis such as this,"chief executive Phil Honeywood said.
“Not only do they pay expensive tuition fees and rent and spend on food and entertainment but we are also happy to use them as cannon fodder for many low-skilled and part time jobs that many Australians have resisted doing in the past.
"If we don’t do something for those in need now our reputation as a safe,welcoming,studying destination could be compromised for all time.”
His call comes after Prime Minister Scott Morrison told international students and other temporary visa holders to return to their home countries if they were unable to support themselves.
Mr Morrison’s comments were echoed on Saturday by acting immigration minister Alan Tudge,who said it was time for such people to go home “as quickly as possible”.
The “go home” call has upset the education sector with universities and private colleges already reeling from a collapse in revenue,a situation likely to worsen later in the year when international students traditionally enrol in big numbers.